Teacher in Focus: Lisa Skelton

by Celia Shortt

Lisa Skelton teaches advanced chemistry, zoology, and forensics at Northgate High School. She has been teaching for 25 years, all of them in Coweta.

Why did you become a teacher?

I enjoy athletics and wanted to work with young people in the high school setting. Going into science allowed me to do both.

What is your favorite part of teaching?

Giving kids back the curiosity about knowledge. Not to be teaching them to pass a test, but getting them excited about learning in general.

If you were not a teacher, what would you be teaching?

Probably some type of physical therapy or athletic training. I really enjoy working one on one and helping people find their passion.

What do you do for fun?

I’m very involved in athletics. My husband and I are involved at our church, Sharpsburg Baptist Church. I also lead worship there.

What is your family like?

I’m married with three kids. My husband, Damon, teaches in the math department here at Northgate. We have a three children: Jared, a pharmacist in Florida: Forrest, a junior at a college in Memphis; and Skylar a senior at Northgate.

What is your favorite movie(s)?

Steel Magnolias Sound of Music

What is your favorite book(s)?

Outlander Series by Diane Gabaldon

What is the best part about being at Northgate?

My small class size because of the classes I teach. We push academics first and make sure our kids are on board so that our students get the best of both worlds.

What is the one thing you want your students to learn?

I want my kids to learn discipline and learn about life skills. Being disciplined enough to take time to learn about what they are interested in and how to find their passion. I want them to learn life skills for learning - that is my goal.